The Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) today hosted a meeting with over 20 ambassadors representing La Francophonie to discuss the Canadian Francophonie Scholarship Program (Programme canadien de bourses de la Francophonie or PCBF).

CFSP is designed to build institutional capacities by training nationals from developing countries of La Francophonie. The program is entirely funded by the Government of Canada, which has entrusted the management of the program to the consortium comprised of CBIE and World University Service of Canada (WUSC) since January 1, 2015.

“We are pleased to be working with our partner to provide these opportunities for students worldwide to gain access to Canadian education,” said Karen McBride, President and CEO of CBIE. “The skills, experience and insights these young professionals will gain will be put to good use as they return home, focused on creating a better life for the citizens in their country.”

The event also included presentation of the PCBF management team, launch of the new PCBF website and a round table discussion of issues identified by the various ambassadors.

“This new phase of the Canadian Francophonie Scholarship Program signals a fresh opportunity to strengthen the education links between Canada and other Francophone countries and to advance together on many global issues where education can have an impact,” said Chris Eaton, Executive Director of WUSC.

CBIE is Canada’s national organization dedicated to making Canada a global leader in international education. CBIE’s pan-Canadian membership comprises 150 colleges, institutes, universities, school boards and language schools which enrol over 1.2 million students from coast to coast.

World University Service of Canada (WUSC) s a leading Canadian non-profit organization in international development, committed to building a more equitable and sustainable world. Working with a unique network of post-secondary institutions, private-sector partners and volunteers, WUSC provides education, employment and empowerment opportunities that improve the lives of millions of disadvantaged youth around the world.